Oh My General (Chinese Drama) – Mekhum Kramom Sros A Delightful Gender-Bending Romantic Comedy
Oh My General (将军在上), a 2017 Chinese historical romantic comedy, delivers a refreshing twist on traditional gender roles, blending action, humor, and heartfelt romance in a beautifully crafted period setting. Based on the popular novel General Above I Am Below (将军在上我在下) by Ju Hua San Li, the drama stands out for its reversal of stereotypical male-female dynamics and its strong, memorable characters.
Plot Summary
The story follows Ye Zhao (played by Sandra Ma), a legendary female general who has disguised herself as a man to rise through the military ranks during the Song Dynasty. Known for her fierce combat skills and unshakable loyalty, Ye Zhao is revered by soldiers and feared by enemies. However, her true identity as a woman is eventually revealed, leading the Empress Dowager to arrange her marriage to the pampered and beautiful royal prince, Zhao Yujin (played by Peter Sheng), in hopes of taming her wild nature.
Zhao Yujin, known for his good looks and luxurious lifestyle, is thrown into a marriage he never wanted. The resulting dynamic between the fearless, dominant Ye Zhao and the refined, spoiled Yujin sets the stage for hilarious clashes, heartwarming growth, and an unconventional love story.
What Makes It Unique
- Gender Role Reversal
Oh My General boldly flips the traditional male-dominant narrative. Ye Zhao is the protector, the fighter, the one with status and power. Yujin, in contrast, is initially delicate, emotional, and inexperienced in war or politics. Watching their roles evolve and mutual respect grow is one of the show’s most enjoyable aspects. - Strong Female Lead
Sandra Ma delivers a powerful performance as Ye Zhao—fearless yet vulnerable when it comes to love. She breaks free from the damsel-in-distress trope, representing strength, independence, and leadership. - Humor and Romance
The drama strikes a great balance between comedy and romance. The culture shock both characters experience in their marriage leads to many laugh-out-loud moments, while the slow-burn romance is both believable and emotionally satisfying. - Lavish Costumes and Cinematography
True to many Chinese period dramas, Oh My General features stunning visuals, intricate costumes, and impressive battle scenes. It’s a feast for the eyes that enhances the narrative rather than overshadowing it.
Themes
- Breaking Stereotypes
The drama challenges traditional expectations of gender and power, making a statement about strength not being limited by gender. - Love and Partnership
At its heart, the series is about learning, compromise, and what it takes to truly support a partner—even when that means adjusting long-held beliefs. - Duty vs. Desire
Both protagonists must navigate the tension between personal happiness and national responsibilities, offering a deeper layer beyond the comedic surface.
Final Thoughts
Oh My General is a delightful and progressive drama that combines history, action, romance, and comedy in a compelling way. It’s perfect for viewers looking for something fresh and entertaining, with meaningful character growth and strong performances. Whether you’re a fan of costume dramas or simply enjoy a good love story with a twist, this show is definitely worth watching.
